FSSAI’s move to reduce import delays could lead to fresher food for consumers

New Delhi: Through the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has changed customs clearance processes to reduce port delays.In a major change, the FSSAI has allowed inspection and testing of imported food consignments instead of waiting for payment at every stage. This is expected to significantly shorten the time required for customs clearance.Meanwhile, the FSSAI has been conducting safety inspections. Final permission, including a No Objection Certificate (NOC), will be obtained only after all fees are paid to ensure food safety is not compromised.Earlier, the process was continuous and time-consuming. After document review, the importer must pay the fee before inspection begins and again before the sample is sent for laboratory testing. Any delay in payment slows down the entire process, leaving goods stranded in ports.Under the revised system, samples can be taken immediately once documents are cleared and visual inspection is completed without waiting for payment confirmation. This allows checks and tests to run in parallel, reducing latency.For consumers, the impact could be immediate. Faster customs clearance means perishable food items such as fruit, dairy and processed products spend less time in ports, reducing the risk of spoilage and helping to maintain quality.The move is also expected to ease port congestion, improve supply chains and reduce logistics delays, which may help stabilize supply and prices in the market.Officials said the change is intended to make the import clearance system faster and more efficient while ensuring that all mandatory safety checks continue before any product reaches consumers.The decision is part of a wider effort to streamline procedures and improve ease of doing business without weakening food safety standards.